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{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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International Recruitment and Employment Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} recruits, employs, and supports international staff ethically, fairly, and in compliance with UK immigration and employment laws. This policy aligns with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulations, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) guidelines, and the Health and Care Worker visa sponsorship rules.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all international recruitment and employment activities, covering:

• Ethical recruitment principles
• Immigration and visa compliance
• Pre-employment checks and induction
• Ongoing support and monitoring
• Compliance with UK employment laws

3. Related Policies

• DBS Checks Policy (SL42)
• Recruitment and Selection Policy (SL30)
• Induction and Training Policy (SL31)
• Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy (SL13)
• Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy (SL36)
• Whistleblowing (Speaking Up) Policy (SL29)

4. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to ethical and legal recruitment of international staff, ensuring compliance with UK employment and immigration laws, while providing a supportive work environment for international recruits. All recruitment practices must be transparent, non-discriminatory, and aligned with CQC standards.

5. Ethical International Recruitment

• Recruitment will be conducted in line with the Code of Practice for the International Recruitment of Health and Social Care Personnel in England.
• We will only recruit from countries that are not on the World Health Organization (WHO) red list for ethical recruitment.
• International recruitment will be carried out directly or through licensed recruitment agencies that adhere to UK ethical standards.

6. Immigration and Visa Compliance

6.1 Sponsorship and Skilled Worker Visas

• {{org_field_name}} is a licensed sponsor under the Health and Care Worker visa scheme.
• International recruits must meet the eligibility criteria for sponsorship, including:
  • A valid job offer for a care role from {{org_field_name}}.
  • Meeting the salary and skill level requirements.
  • Providing proof of English language proficiency.
  • Completing all DBS, identity, and right-to-work checks.
• Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) will be assigned through the UKVI sponsorship management system (SMS).

6.2 Visa Monitoring and Compliance

• UKVI compliance obligations must be followed, including:
  • Reporting any non-attendance, resignation, or termination of sponsored employees.
  • Keeping accurate records of visa holders’ employment status.
  • Ensuring that visa conditions (e.g., working hours, role responsibilities) are met.

7. Pre-Employment Checks and Induction

7.1 Pre-Employment Screening

All international recruits must undergo:

• Enhanced DBS checks and overseas police clearance.
• Reference checks from previous employers.
• Right to work verification using official UK Home Office systems.
• Health screenings, where required.

7.2 Induction Programme

• A comprehensive induction programme will be provided, covering:
  • UK health and social care regulations.
  • CQC standards and organisational policies.
  • Safeguarding, dignity in care, and person-centred support.
  • Cultural adaptation and UK workplace expectations.
  • Mandatory training (e.g., moving and handling, medication management, first aid).

8. Ongoing Support and Monitoring

8.1 Workplace Integration

• A buddy system will pair new international recruits with experienced staff.
• Regular well-being checks will be conducted to ensure smooth transition and adaptation.
• Pastoral support will be available to help with accommodation, banking, and UK settlement.

8.2 Professional Development

• International recruits will have access to training and career progression opportunities.
• Support will be provided for registration with professional bodies (e.g., NMC for nurses).
• Staff will be encouraged to complete Care Certificate and NVQ qualifications.

9. Employment Rights and Fair Treatment

• All international employees will receive equal pay, benefits, and protections as UK employees.
• No employee will be charged recruitment fees.
• Staff will be protected against exploitation, unfair dismissal, and discrimination.
• Any grievances or concerns can be raised through the Whistleblowing Policy (SL29).

10. CQC Compliance

This policy aligns with the following CQC regulations:

• Regulation 13: Safeguarding Service Users from Abuse and Improper Treatment – Ensuring international staff are appropriately vetted and trained.
• Regulation 17: Good Governance – Maintaining accurate records of visa sponsorship and employment compliance.
• Regulation 19: Fit and Proper Persons Employed – Ensuring international recruits meet UK health and social care standards.

11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if legislative changes, CQC regulations, or operational requirements require amendments.

For further guidance, contact {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}, Registered Manager at {{org_field_email}}.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.